Shifnal Church Addresses Bell Chime Complaints, Clarifies Automated Origin

Members of a bell-ringing group utilized social media to clarify information for a resident following complaints about late-night chimes disturbing the town’s peace. The group, affiliated with St Andrew’s Church in Shifnal, Shropshire, posted on their Facebook page to explain that the overnight chimes were not manually rung by them but were automated signals from the church clock. The bell-ringers stated they had received messages from a resident who was bothered by the noise late in the evening but affirmed they had no control over the hourly chimes. Their social media post garnered positive reception from many in the community, who praised the sound of the bells. One individual commented, “We are very lucky to have the bells, I love them. You can’t please everyone but they are part of Shifnal and long may they ring.” Another person added that the bells served as a “sweet reminder of home to many”. Reverend Chris Thorpe, from the church, mentioned that complaints occasionally arise, particularly from individuals new to the town. However, he noted that most people, including himself, found the nightly chimes “comforting”. Mr. Thorpe underscored the distinction between the bells being rung twice a week and the hourly chimes of the clock, which he described as an “amazing piece of history”. He further stated that both elements constitute a “very important part of the community”. The bell-ringers’ social media post indicated that the group rings the bells on Sunday mornings and conducts practice sessions on Thursday evenings. The bells are also used on other occasions and when requested by the church. The group expressed, “sorry if this tradition upsets you” but maintained their belief that it is “very important to our church community and should continue”.